Making a worthwhile contribution to the community is part of Kirk Storie ‘s DNA so it’s hardly surprising that his new service is one that guarantees the safety and respect of senior citizens and parents wanting the best for their children.

MEDIA RELEASE

December 15 2011

Safe and reliable personal driving service for Hibiscus Coast
Making a worthwhile contribution to the community is part of Kirk Storie ‘s DNA so it’s hardly surprising that his new service is one that guarantees the safety and respect of senior citizens and parents wanting the best for their children.

Kirk is the proud owner of Freedom Companion Driving, a new personal driver service that transports North Shore clients to and from medical appointments, grocery shopping and social outings, school pick-ups to sports and other extra curricula activities and ensuring the safe and secure home delivery.

Freedom Companion Drivers offers a unique service including the same friendly driver each trip while maintaining the dignity and independence of each customer Kirk said. The service is expected come as welcome news to senior citizens.

“ It’s quite different from existing services such as taxis, it’s more like having your own personal chauffeur,” he says. “ I have personal experience with people who were no longer confident driving at night and who needed help sometimes with carrying heavy grocery bags. It was a concern for the entire family but we weren’t always available to help. It’s great now to be able to take the anxiety out of the situation for our older clients, and for their families to know they’re safe.

“ The latest report from NZ Transport Agency said that the total number of road fatalities up to 30 November this year for 60+ is higher for both 2010 an 2011 than either the 15-19 and 20-24 year groups which are widely regarded as the ‘highest risks groups’. Unfortunately as the ageing population booms so too will the fatality rates,” he says. “We’re not saying older people should stop driving but we are here to provide a cost effective and safe service for those who are forced to stay driving just to be able to do everyday things like go to the doctor, take their cat to the vet and shopping. Public transport is limited and traditional taxis are expensive and with varying costs and don’t they provide the level of support we do. Our clients don’t have the cost of keeping a vehicle on the road either.

“ Unless you’re experiencing it, you don’t understand how difficult it is not to be able to get yourself to church, medical appointments and social outings,” he said. “Car keys are a symbol of independence and freedom for Kiwis and it can be a devastating experience for those who lose the ability to drive.”

Kirk says safety isn’t only an issue for older adults. “ Getting children safely to school or to after school activities is a real problem for many busy working parents. To know that the same trusted driver will be there every time is a great reassurance for parents, and for the children,” he said.

Born and bred on the North Shore Kirk has lived in the region for 40 years. For nearly 15 years he has been an active member of Radio Lollipop NZ at Star ship Hospital – a charity devoted to entertaining youngsters in hospital, providing music and fun activities in an environment which can be strange and scary.

“ The kids love it” he said. “And they also participate – we don’t talk down to them, we’re there to show them we care. That’s the key with older adults too. They want to feel like the person cares about them.

“ We take all the anxiety out of the outings – providing a familiar friendly face, at an affordable price on time every time, as well as a helping hand when required” . Police checked and with specialist license endorsements the Freedom Companion Driver service operates from the North Shore to Waiwera.